Firefighting or rescue apparatus including a light integrated handle

ABSTRACT

A firefighting or rescue apparatus includes a frame, cab and/or body to which a signal light grab handle or elongated light integrated handle is mounted. The handle is operable in an illumination mode in which the grab handle emits illumination in a predefined manner, and a sleep mode in which the grab handle emits no illumination. The grab handle includes a light strip including a plurality of light sources, such as LEDs. This strip can be coupled to a wire that extends through one or more handle attachment brackets, and through an exterior outer panel of the apparatus. The light grab handle provides at least one of warning lights, brake lights and signal lights to observers of the firefighting apparatus when actuated.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a firefighting apparatus, such as afire truck, a trailer or other vehicles, and more particularly to afirefighting apparatus with a light integrated grab handle.

Fire trucks and rescue vehicles typically include multiple signal and/orwarning lights. These lights are available in a variety of styles anddesigns unique to the location of the lights on the truck and thepurpose of the lights. Depending on local jurisdictional rules, firetrucks often have signal and/or warning lights on many differentlocations of the truck, inside and out. Popular types of lights used onfire trucks include separate strobe lights, surface mount lights, lightbars, traffic advisor lights and grille lights. The lights are availablein many different warning light colors, the most popular colors beingred and white, and in some jurisdictions, blue and yellow. Many higherend lights come preprogrammed to emit a multitude of flash patterns.

An issue with almost all conventional fire truck lights is that theyrequire holes be drilled, punched or formed through panels of the body,cab and/or frame of the truck. The lights are then mounted in the holes,or the lights include wiring that extends through the holes. These lightholes are in addition to the multiple other holes typically found on afire truck to accommodate other accessories such as latches, steps andthe like. The more holes there are in the truck, the more likely it isthat water, chemicals and other debris can inadvertently enter the truckover time, particularly if seals around the holes degrade. In turn, thisleakage, particularly in climates where salt is used on roads duringwinter, can lead to rust, which can prematurely compromise a firetruck's components.

Signal, warning and other lights on fire trucks and rescue vehicles arehelpful and even required in many applications. The additional holesthat are used to mount the lights, however, are undesirable.Accordingly, there remains room for improvement in the mounting oflights to fire trucks while reducing the overall number of holes inthem, and the overall number of separate accessories mounted on thetrucks.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A firefighting or rescue apparatus including a light integrated grabhandle mounted to the frame, wherein the grab handle is operable toprovide signal, brake, and/or warning illumination at the location ofthe handle. The grab handle provides dual functionality as a structuralhandle adapted to provide personnel with a grasping surface to enter ordismount the apparatus, as well as lights to provide illuminatedwarning, brake, traffic and/or signal lights to observers of thefirefighting apparatus when actuated.

In one embodiment, the signal light grab handle is mounted to anexterior outer panel of a cab, body or frame of the apparatus. Thesignal light grab handle can include one or more lights joined with oneor more connector wires to provide power to the lights and therebyeliminate them. The connector wires can be hidden within the structureof the signal light grab handle and can pass through internal boresthereof, and ultimately through a concealed and protected hole definedby the exterior outer panel, into the interior of the apparatus.

In another embodiment, the signal light grab handle is in electricalcommunication with a controller and a power source. The controller canselectively provide power from the power source to the lights. Thecontroller can control the signal light grab handle so that is operablein a flashing mode, in which the signal light grab handle emitsillumination in a predefined flashing pattern, as well as a sleep mode,in which the signal light grab handle emits no illumination. Thecontroller also can control the signal light grab handle so that itemits light in a constant mode without interruption in illumination fora period of time.

In still another embodiment, the signal light grab handle can beconstructed to include a central grab rail within which one or morerecesses can be defined. These recesses can be configured to receive andprotect the lights of the signal light grab handle. Optionally thelights can be disposed in a housing constructed from a weather resistantand UV resistant material, such as a polymer. This housing can furtherbe translucent and/or transparent so that illumination emitted by thelights passes through it is visible through the housing.

In yet another embodiment, the light of the signal light grab handle canbe in the form of a strip having multiple light emitting diodes (LEDs),electrically connected in series and/or in parallel. The LED strip canbe positioned so that it is angled outwardly, away from the body of thetruck. The LED strip can include a primary axis of illumination, whichoptionally can be generally perpendicular to the plane in which the LEDsof the LED strip are disposed. The primary axis of illumination canpoint outward, away from an outer panel of the body, for example, a cabof a fire truck.

In even another embodiment, the firefighting apparatus can be in theform of a fire truck, including a frame with a cab mounted over one ormore wheels of the truck. The cab can include one or more doors on oneor both sides of the cab. The signal light grab handle can be mounted sothat the grab rail is immediately adjacent at least one of the doors toprovide a graspable portion of the truck so that an occupant can ingressand/or egress relative to a cab interior.

In a further embodiment, the cab can include a first door and a thirddoor on a single side of the truck. The signal light grab handle can bemounted rearward and distal from the first door, and forward of thethird door, so that the signal light grab handle is between the firstdoor and the third door, and not mounted on either of the first door orthe third door.

In even a further embodiment, the signal light grab handle includes alongitudinal axis extending from an upper end to an opposing lower end.The longitudinal axis can be oriented substantially vertically on thetruck. The signal light grab handle also can be rigidly and immovablyjoined with the truck. An open space can be located between the centralgrab rail and the exterior outer panel of the truck. This open space canbe sized to enable human digits to project between the central grab railand the outer panel while an occupant grasps the central grab rail witha hand.

In still another embodiment, the firefighting apparatus can be in theform of a fire truck, including a frame with a cab mounted over one ormore wheels of the truck. The cab can include a rear end, disposedrearward of rear axles of the truck. The rear end can include a rearbumper and a hose bed opening. The light integrated handle can bemounted so that the grab rail is immediately adjacent and optionallybelow the hose bed opening, and at least two feet above the rear bumperto provide a graspable portion of the truck so that an occupant caningress and/or egress relative to a platform on the rear end.

In a further embodiment, the light integrated grab handle includes alongitudinal axis extending from a left end to a right end, or from oneside of the truck to the other. The longitudinal axis can be orientedsubstantially horizontally on the truck, parallel to the bottom of thehose bed opening and to a platform/bumper located at the bottom of theframe. The light integrated grab handle also can be rigidly andimmovably joined with the truck. An open space can be located betweenthe grab rail and an exterior outer panel of the truck. This open spacecan be sized to enable human digits to project between the grab rail andthe outer panel while an occupant grasps the grab rail with a hand.

The current embodiments provide a simple and effective construction thatcan enable features of a firefighting or rescue apparatus, such as afire truck, to serve multiple functions. Where a firefighting apparatusis dispatched to an emergency location, the light grab handle can beselectively illuminated, optionally in a flashing pattern driven by thecontroller, to emit illumination and provide warning lights to observersof the fire truck, thereby alerting the observers to the emergency orother situation at that location. The light grab handle also can beselectively illuminated to operate as a signal light, for example, toact as a turn signal indicating to observers of truck that the truck isabout to turn in a particular direction. The signal light grab handle ofcourse also can function as a grasping surface to assist occupants whodesire to board or deboard the apparatus. The signal light grab handlecan reduce the overall number of different lights and handles attachedto an extending from the exterior of the truck, and thus the number ofholes in the exterior of the truck. This can simplify mounting of theseelements and can enhance the integrity of the fire truck over time.

These and other objects, advantages, and features of the invention willbe more fully understood and appreciated by reference to the descriptionof the current embodiments and the drawings.

Before the embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it isto be understood that the invention is not limited to the details ofoperation or to the details of construction and the arrangement of thecomponents set forth in the following description or illustrated in thedrawings. The invention may be implemented in various other embodimentsand of being practiced or being carried out in alternative ways notexpressly disclosed herein. Also, it is to be understood that thephraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose ofdescription and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of“including” and “comprising” and variations thereof is meant toencompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well asadditional items and equivalents thereof. Further, enumeration may beused in the description of various embodiments. Unless otherwiseexpressly stated, the use of enumeration should not be construed aslimiting the invention to any specific order or number of components.Nor should the use of enumeration be construed as excluding from thescope of the invention any additional steps or components that might becombined with or into the enumerated steps or components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of a firefighting or rescue apparatus in the formof a fire truck including signal light grab handles, mounted to a cab ofthe truck, according to a current embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a top view of the firefighting apparatus;

FIG. 3 is a front view of the firefighting apparatus;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the firefighting apparatus with aforward signal light grab handle illuminated during a flashing pattern;

FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the firefighting apparatus with aforward signal light grab handle and a rearward, second signal lightgrab handle illuminated during a flashing pattern;

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the signal light grab handle andcomponents;

FIG. 7 is a close-up view of a central grab rail and a partial sectionof a bracket that secures the central grab rail to an outer panel of thetruck;

FIG. 8 is a rear view of a firefighting or rescue apparatus in the formof a fire truck including a light integrated handle mounted to the rearof the truck, according to a first alternative embodiment, with thelights in a brake mode;

FIG. 9 is a rear view thereof with the lights in a turn signal mode;

FIG. 10 is a rear view thereof with the lights in a traffic advisormode; and

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the light integrated handle relative tothe rear end of the firefighting or rescue apparatus.

DESCRIPTION OF THE CURRENT EMBODIMENTS

A current embodiment of a firefighting apparatus is illustrated in FIGS.1-7 and generally designated 10. The firefighting apparatus, referred toherein as a fire truck, can be a self-propelled vehicle, for example, apumper truck as shown. Of course, although shown as a pumper fire truck,the firefighting apparatus can optionally be another type of fire truck,such as an aerial ladder truck, an emergency vehicle, a rescue vehicleand other modes of transportation such as tanker trucks or trailers,bush trucks, aerial ladder trailers or other equipment.

The fire truck 10 can include a frame, also referred to as a bodyherein, which can be mounted to a chassis which can be further mountedto multiple wheels 32. The wheels can be attached to conventional front32AF and rear 32AR axles, which are further attached to the chassis ofthe truck. The fire truck can be mobilized via an internal combustionengine which drives the wheels via a transmission.

The fire truck 10 can include one or more internal electronic orcomputers or controllers that can operate the engine, transmission, orsteering control mechanism to enable the front wheels to be steered upontransport to an emergency location. As used herein, an emergencylocation can be a scene of a traffic accident, a boating accident, aplane accident, a man-made or natural disaster, and/or a terroristattack, or any other location where one or more victims' lives areendangered or otherwise compromised.

The frame or body 30 can include a forward portion 31 and a rearwardportion 33 located at opposite ends of the fire truck 10. Generally therear wheels 32R and their axle 32AR are located in the rearward portion33 of the fire truck 10. The front or steering wheels 32 can be locatedin the forward portion 31 of the fire truck, and mounted to a front axle32AF. The frame 30 in the forward portion 31 can include a cab 34. Thecab 34 can house occupants, such as firefighters or rescue personnel, asthey are transported to and from an emergency location. The cab 34 caninclude controls, such as a steering mechanism and various displaysinside the cab to monitor and evaluate the operation of the vehicle 10.The cab can terminate a distance of several feet rearward of the frontwheels 32, or generally forward of the pump controls 36 and/or rearwardportion 33 of the fire truck 10.

A pump control panel 36 can be mounted rearward of the cab 34. Under orbehind the pump control panel 36, one or more pumps 37 can be mounted.These pumps can be mounted to the frame. Generally, the pump 37 can bein fluid communication with a firefighting fluid tank 38 mounted to theframe in the rearward portion 33, and/or a source of firefighting fluidexternal to the truck, such as a fire hydrant. The pump also can be influid communication with one or more hoses or waterways 47 as describedbelow. The pump can be configured to convey firefighting fluid from theexternal source or the tank to the hose 47 in a forced manner so thatthe firefighting fluid can be applied to a fire.

The hose 47 can be operable to transfer a continuous supply offirefighting fluid to the water outlet 48 which is generally in the formof a nozzle. Generally the hose receives pressurized firefighting fluidfrom a pump 37 and storage tank 38 on the frame 30. A nozzle 48 assistsin pressurizing and/or shaping the continuous stream of firefightingfluid from the hose 47 toward a fire in a burning structure, such as abuilding, vehicle or other item.

In addition to the cab 34, the frame 30 optionally can include a body39, rearward of the cab, having lockers 38 mounted rearward of the pumpcontrol panel 36, generally in the rearward portion 33 of the fire truck10. The body can conceal all or a portion of the tank 38. The lockersoptionally can be located on and accessible from the first 35A andsecond 35B sides of the fire truck, and can be sized and configured tostore supplies and equipment useful for easy access at an emergencylocation.

Turning now to FIGS. 1, 4 and 5, the cab 34 can be located in theforward portion 31 of the frame or body 30. The cab can be adapted tohouse one or more occupants of the apparatus. Those occupants can befirefighters, rescue victims, officers, authorities or other personnel.Although referred to as an occupant, that phrase is not necessarily meanthat the person is occupying or in the cab. Rather it may be that anoccupant is a person standing upon the truck, for example on the body oron a platform, or a person waiting to board the truck, standing orlocated on the ground. The cab 34 can be configured to include one ormore exterior doors on the first 35A and second 35B sides of the truck10. As an example, on the driver side of the truck, a first door 41 canbe disposed.

The first door 41 can be mounted in an opening 41O defined by the cab,and can be selectively opened and closed relative to the cab, to providean occupant ingress and egress relative to a cab interior 34I. The firstexterior door 41 can be located forward of the front axle 32AF and canprovide access to a driver's seat of the vehicle, optionally including asteering wheel (not shown) near the seat.

The first door 41 can be swingably mounted to the cab via a hinge 41H sothat the door can swing open in the direction S1, generally toward thefront of the truck and away from the front wheels 32 and cab 34, as wellas the signal light grab handle 71, described further below. The door 41can include a front edge 41F and a rear edge 41R. The door also can beoutfitted with a handle 41A that is configured to open and close thedoor, providing a securing latch or lock mechanism so that the doorremains shut when desired.

Rearward of the first door 41 an outer exterior panel 50 can bedisposed. This outer panel can form another portion of the cab 34, andcan be located above the front wheel 32. This exterior panel can be inthe form of a sheet of metal, optionally painted, coated or treated onthe exterior surface thereof. The panel can be mounted to an underlyingstructure, such as an elongated tube or support frame via welds,fasteners, rivets and the like. This exterior panel 50 can be mountedrearward of the rear edge 41R of the first door 41. The exterior panelcan extend from above the wheel well 32W, or above the first axle 32AFtoward a roof 34R of the cab.

Optionally, the cab 34 can include a second door 43 on the passengerside or second side 35B of the truck 10. This door can be set up thesame way as the first door 41. The cab 34 also can include a third door43 mounted rearward of the first door 41 as well as rearward of theexterior outer panel 50 on the first side 35A of the truck 10. Thisthird door can be mounted with a hinge 43H to the cab 34 and optionallyto the exterior panel 50. This door can include a front edge 41F and arear edge 43R. This third door also can include a separate dedicatedhandle or latch 43A to enable an occupant to open and close the thirddoor. Generally this third door 43 can be mounted rearward of the frontaxle 32AF and can provide ingress and egress relative to the cabinterior 34I. This third door also can swing open forwardly, toward thefirst signal light grab handle 71 but away from the second signal lightgrab handle 73 as described below. Rearward of the third door 43, anadditional or second outer panel 52 can be mounted to complete theportion of the cab behind that third door.

Optionally, the exterior or outer portions of the cab 34, the firstexterior door 41, the third exterior door 43 and the panels 50 and 52form portions of the cab exterior, along with any windows associatedwith the cab.

Further optionally the fire truck 10 can be outfitted with a light bar61 mounted to the roof 34R of the cab 34. The truck also can includeheadlights 62 mounted to the front of the cab to provide illuminationwhile the fire truck is driving in dark environments. The truckoptionally can include signal or warning lights 63 mounted on the bumper34B of the cab. As used herein, signal lights, warning lights, trafficadvisor lights, brake lights and signal warning lights can be usedinterchangeably, and in general can encompass lights that providesignals, indications and/or warnings. Additional lights 64 and anothersignal light grab handle, also referred to as a light integrated handle171, as described in connection with the alternative embodiment below,can be included on the truck in the rearward portion 33. All of theselights can be in communication with a network and/or controller 10Cmounted on board the truck 10. This controller can be a computer orsimilar device adapted to control one or more of the lights of the truckas well as other operating systems of the truck. This controlleroptionally can be in communication with a human interface, such as atoggle switch, control knob or the like so that an occupant can selectdifferent modes of operation for the lights.

The controller 10C optionally can be configured to operate any lights onthe truck in one or more modes. For example, the controller can operatethe lights in a sleep mode, so that one or more of the lights emit noillumination. Generally in this mode, no power or a very low power issupplied to the respective lights on board the truck, for example, to aturn signal, a warning light, headlights and the lights of the signallight grab handles 71 and 73 as described below. As another example, ina signal mode, the controller can provide power, upon an input selectionby an occupant, to preselected lights, for example to a turn signal, awarning light, headlights and/or signal light grab handles to illuminatethe respective lights constantly and/or intermittently depending on theapplication and the particular light. As yet another example, in aflashing mode, the controller can provide power, upon input selection byoccupant, to preselected lights, for example to the light bar 61, thewarning lights 63 and 64, as well as the lights of the signal light grabhandles 71 and 73 as described below. In this flashing mode, lightscontrolled by the controller can emit illumination in a predefinedflashing pattern. For example the controller can illuminate the lightbar 61 so that it flashes and/or illuminates for predetermined amountsof time in predetermined patterns. As another example, the controllercan illuminate one or both of the signal light grab handles 71 and 73,for predetermined amounts of time in predetermined patterns. In such aflashing pattern, each of the signal light grab handles 71 and 73 on aside of the truck can be illuminated sequentially, simultaneously, or insome other timed pattern to provide warning or signal function. Ofcourse, in some applications the controller can illuminate the signallight grab handles 71 and 73 in the signal mode, in which case thosehandles can operate as turn signals or other illumination.

As mentioned above, the truck 10 includes one or more signal light grabhandles 71, 72, 73 and 74. As shown in FIG. 1, first and second signallight grab handles 71 and 73 can be mounted on a first side 35A of thetruck 10. The second and fourth signal light grab handles 72 and 74 canbe mounted on the second, opposing passenger side of the truck 35B. Ofcourse, although four signal light grab handles are illustrated in thisembodiment, the number of signal light grab handles can vary, as well astheir location on the truck. For example there can be one, two, three,four, five, ten or more signal light grab handles, depending on theparticular firefighting apparatus and the optional availability of grabhandles on that apparatus.

Details of the signal light grab handles will now be described withreference to the first signal light grab handle 71 in FIGS. 6 and 7. Itwill be appreciated that the other signal light grab handles 72, 73 and74 can be similar and/or identical to this signal light grab handle, sothose other handles will not be described in further detail here.

The first signal light grab handle 71 can be mounted rearward and distalfrom the first door 41. As an example, the signal light grab handle 71can be mounted rearward of the rearward edge 41R of that door 41. Thesignal light grab handle 71 can be mounted above the wheel well 32W, aswell as above the front axle 32AF and wheel 32. The signal light grabhandle 71 can be mounted below and distal from the roof 34R. Of coursein some applications, the handle can be mounted to the roof, or even tothe body, rearward of the cab.

The signal light grab handle 71 can be mounted rearward of the handle orlatch 41A the first door 41. The handle also can be mounted forward ofthe optional third door 43, in particular, forward of the hinge 43H ofthe rearward door. Where the cab 34 includes first and third doors onthe first side 35A, the first handle 71 can be mounted between the firstand third doors, but closer to the first door, so that handle 71 can beused by an occupant to enter the opening 41O that the first door closes.

The signal light grab handle 71 can be rigidly and immovably joined withthe truck, in particular the cab 34 and specifically to the exterior ofthe cab 34. Generally, this signal light grab handle is mounted outsidethe interior 34I of the cab. Further optionally, the signal light grabhandles include no parts or portions that move in any direction relativeto the cab or exterior unless those parts and/or the signal light grabhandle is disassembled relative to the truck. Even further optionally,there are no moving or swinging components to the signal light grabhandle.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6, the signal light grab handle isoriented vertically, optionally in a vertical plane VP. This verticalplane VP can be perpendicular to the ground G upon which the fire truck10 is parked. Of course, the signal light grab handle can be slightlyoff from vertical, and mounted substantially vertical, in which case thelongitudinal axis LA of the grab handle 71 can be parallel to, and/orabout 1° to about 10° tilted relative to the vertical plane. Optionally,in yet other constructions, the longitudinal axis LA of the signal lightgrab handle 71 can be horizontal, or generally perpendicular to thevertical plane VP, to provide a different type of grasping surfacedepending on the application.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the signal light grab handle 71 can include acentral grab rail 71G including an upper end 71U and a lower end 71L,which are distal from one another. The central grab rail can beconstructed from a metal, a composite, a polymer and/or combinationsthereof. Optionally the central grab rail can be an extruded aluminum,steel or alloy including the desired surface features upon extrusion.Between the upper end and lower end, the exterior surface 71E of thegrab handle 71 can include a plurality of ribs 71 or other surfacecontours to enhance the grip and grasping of that rail by an occupant.These ribs or contours can be formed during the extruding process. Ofcourse, the central grab rail can be machined, molded or otherwiseconstructed using processes other than extrusion.

The central grab rail 71G optionally can define an internal bore 71Bthat extends from the upper to the lower end. Although it is shown astriangular in FIG. 7, this bore can be of virtually any cross-section,for example, circular, elliptical, polygonal and the like. This bore canbe included in the grab rail to reduce the overall weight of the railwhile maintaining its structural integrity. It also can provide aconduit through which a connector wire of a lighting element asdescribed below is disposed.

The central grab rail 71G, as shown in FIG. 7, can define a longitudinalrecess or channel 71C. The recess 71C can open outwardly and away froman outer panel 50 or the cab 34. The recess can include a bottom 71CBand opposing sides 71S. The sides 71S can include one or moreprojections or shoulders 71H1 and 71H2 that extend outwardly from thesides 71S. As described further below, these shoulders can be used tojoin a housing 80 and/or a light strip 90 fixedly and securely to thecentral grab rail 71G. Optionally, the bottom, sides and shoulders canform a securement slot 71SS above the bottom 71CB within a portion ofthe recess 71C. The slot can capture at least part of the housing and/orlight strip.

The signal light grab handle 71 can include a light strip 90 asmentioned above. This light strip can be in the form of a strip havingmultiple light sources. For example, the strip can be an LED strip,having multiple light emitting diodes or LEDs 91 mounted to a base strip92. The multiple LEDs can be in series and/or parallel to one another orotherwise electrically coupled to one another and optionally to aconnector wire 99. The LED strip 90 optionally can include a printedcircuit board, converter, inverter or other device 93 to assist in theoperation of the LEDs.

The LED strip can extend from the upper end 71U to the lower end 71L,the central grab rail 71G and can be housed substantially within therecess 71C. In some cases, the LED strip 90 and/or the housing can bemounted below the outermost peripheries 71P of the central grab rail sothat it is less likely to be damaged via impact with objects or crushingforces while grasping the rail. This LED strip 90 can be disposeddirectly in the recess 71C of the central grab rail 71G, or it can behoused in a housing 80.

Optionally, the multiple LEDs 91 are aligned linearly with one anotheralong the LED strip 90. The respective LEDs, for example at least 5, 10,15 or more LEDs, can be spaced optionally 1 mm to 100 mm, furtheroptionally 1 mm to 50 mm, and even further optionally 1 mm to 25 mm fromone another. The LEDs also can be aligned to present a primary axis ofillumination PAL, along which a majority of light is emitted from thestrip. The amount of illumination can be varied depending on thetransmissive and/or reflective properties of the housing 80 and/or theconfiguration of the LEDs. Indeed, the housing can be formed to includecertain reflective surfaces and/or prisms to focus the primary axis ofillumination in a particular direction. Generally, the primary axis ofillumination PAL faces outward relative to the outer panel 50 and/or thecab 34 of the truck 10. This is so that the emitted illumination is notwasted by the LED strip being pointed toward the truck. Optionally, asshown in FIG. 7, the primary axis of illumination can be disposed at anangle A relative to the outer panel 50 of optionally between 45° and135°, further optionally between 60° and 120°, even further optionallybetween 80° and 100°, yet further optionally about 90°. Of course, otherangles can be selected depending on the application.

As mentioned above, the housing 80 can be constructed to house the LEDstrip 90. This can protect the LED strip from liquids, heat, moisture orother environmental factors to preserve or prolong the life of the LEDs.Optionally the housing can include a base 82 and multiple exteriorsurfaces 85A, 85B and 85C. These exterior surfaces can angle relative toone another as shown, or the surfaces can be part of a compound curvedsurface. The base 82 can be sized to fit within the recess 71C, and inparticular to fit at least partially between the shoulders 71H1 and71H2. The housing can include one or more flanges 81 and 83 extendingfrom the base and/or adjacent the base. These flanges 81 and 83 can beslightly tapered on a front side so that when the housing is pressedbetween the shoulders of the recess, those flanges can effectively slidepast the shoulders. After they slide past the shoulders, a rearward lipof the respective flanges can engage the shoulders effectively trap thehousing within the rail 71G.

Optionally, in some applications, the flanges 81 and 83 are not tapered.In this case, they can be slid from an end, for example the upper end orlower end of the rail into the recess, for example, into a slot 71SS sothat the shoulders capture the housing and/or board. Further optionally,after installation of the housing 80 in the recess 71C, that housing canbe glued, cemented, or fastened with fasteners to the grab rail for asecure fit.

The housing 80 can be constructed from a translucent, transparent and/orlight transmitting material, for example clear or frosted polymers,composites and the like. Of course, in some applications, the housingcan be constructed from an opaque material having reflectors therein andminute openings within which the LEDs or other light sources project.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the LED strip 90 can include or be joinedwith a connector wire 99. This connector wire 99 can extend through aportion of the housing and/or the grab rail 71G. Ultimately, theconnector wire 99 can extend through an upper hole 51HU defined by theexterior outer panel 50, and can be connected with a power source and/ora controller 10C. The power source can provide power to illuminate themultiple LEDs, and the controller provides control over the mode of thatillumination.

Optionally, in some applications, the connector wire 99 can be absent.In this case, the LED strip 90 can include circuitry so that it can beinductively coupled to an onboard power source and/or controller 10Cwithin the cab. Of course, other modes of powering the lights arecontemplated, without use of the connector wire 99.

The signal light grab handle 71 can be mounted fixedly and immovably tothe truck. As shown in FIG. 6, the handle 71 can include one or morebrackets 77UB and 77LB to secure the central grab rail to the outerpanel 50 and generally to the cab 34. The upper bracket 77UB can includean internal bore 77I within which the upper end 71U of the grab railinterfits. The grab rail 71G can be secured in the upper bracket with asetscrew 77S, to aim and secure the rotational orientation of theprimary axis of illumination PAL. Of course, the internal bore 77Ialternatively can be contoured with corresponding ribs or a projectionto engage the ribs 71R of the grab rail 71G, thereby preventing the grabrail from rotating therein, and to assist in aiming the primary axis ofillumination PAL.

The upper bracket 77UB can include a pillar 77P that extends to a base77B. The pillar can include a pillar bore 77M that extends from theinternal bore 77I and through the base 77B of the bracket 77UB. Thispillar bore 77M can align with a hole 51HU defined by the outer panel50. Accordingly, the connector wire 99 can be extended through theinternal bore, the pillar bore and the base, ultimately into theinterior of the cab and behind the exterior or outer panel 50. The base77B can include one or more base holes that are aligned withcorresponding holes in the outer panel 50. One or more fasteners F canproject through the base holes and can be screwed into the outer panel50 to secure the bracket to that outer panel. Of course, in otherconstructions, the fasters can be deleted and the base welded to theouter panel 50. In yet other constructions, the pillar 77P can bethreaded into corresponding threads defined by the outer panel 50. Otherconstructions are contemplated to secure the bracket to the panel.

The lower bracket 77LB can be similarly constructed to the upper bracket77UB, and can include similar features. Optionally, if additionalconnector wires are used with the LED strip 90, those wires can besnaked through bores of the lower bracket 77LB and through a lower hole51HL defined by the outer panel 50.

Although not shown, one or more elastomeric gaskets optionally can bedisposed between the base 77B in the exterior panel 50 to preventliquids, contaminants and/or debris from entering the cab through theholes for the fasteners and the connector wire. Further, the bracketscan include one or more seals to further prevent fluids from enteringthe cab through those brackets.

As mentioned above, the fire truck 10 can include more than one signallight grab handle, for example, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, it caninclude first, second, third and fourth signal light grab handles. Thesegrab handles can be oriented on opposing first and second sides of thetruck. In addition, the third and fourth signal light grab handles canbe disposed on the same side of the truck, in different locationsrelative to the doors, to assist occupants in entering those respectivedoors. Again, for example, the first signal light grab handle 71 can bedisposed rearward of the first door 41 and forward of the third door 43.The third signal light grab handle 73 on the same side can be disposedrearward of both the first and third doors. The second signal light grabhandle and the first signal light grab handle both however can bemounted on the cab exterior. In other applications, the signal lightgrab handles can be mounted to the rearward portion 33 or the body ofthe truck.

Operation of the firefighting or rescue apparatus of the currentembodiments will now be described. The firefighting apparatus 10,optionally in the form of a pumper fire truck, can be used to fightfires in a building or other structure. As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5,the fire truck can be driven to the emergency location and parked there.In transit to the emergency location, or at the emergency location, anoccupant of the truck can manipulate a control switch or toggle tocontrol the controller. The occupant can set the controller from onemode to another, and the various lights of the truck can be illuminatedto provide warning lights and/or signal lights to observers of the truckto alert those observers of the emergency.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the first and second signal light grabhandles can be illuminated in a flashing pattern in which the first grabhandle signal light 71 illuminates, while the third grab handle signallight 73 does not illuminate, as shown in FIG. 4, and then the first andthird grab handle signal lights 71 and 73 illuminate simultaneously, asshown in FIG. 5. A variety of other patterns can be selected dependingon the application.

After the fire truck 10 is no longer in transit, or is removed from theemergency location, the lights, including the signal light grab handlescan be put into a sleep mode so that they no longer emit illumination.The firefighting apparatus then can be transported back to its garage orstation.

A first alternative embodiment of the signal grab handle is shown inFIGS. 8-11 and generally designated 171. This embodiment is similar tothe embodiment described above in structure, function and operation withseveral exceptions. For example, this handle, alternatively referred toas a light integrated handle 171, can be disposed on or adjacent a rearend 133RE of the truck 110, rather than up at the cab. The rear end133RE forms the rearward most portion of the body or frame 130, and inparticular the rearward most portion of the rearward portion 133.

The rear end 133RE can include an opening 140O. This opening 140O can beassociated with a hose bed 140 that extends from the rear end toward therear axles 32AR, and optionally forward of the rear axle 32AR. This hosebed can form a portion of the rearward portion 133 of the truck 110.This hose bed 140 can include a floor 140F and first and second sides140S1, 140S2 collectively form the hose bed. The hose bed can bestructured so that a folded up hose for use in firefighting can bedisposed on the floor and secured within the hose bed 140. The hose bedcan include a forward wall (not shown) opposite the opening 140O. Theopening 140O can be outfitted with a cover 140C. The cover can be anytype of material, such as a fabric sheet, a woven tarp and/or apolymeric or metal plate, depending on the application. The cover againgenerally closes the hose bed 140O opening yet provides easy access tothe hose stored in the hose bed. Optionally, the cover 140C can includeone or more straps 140S. The straps can be elastic and/or inelasticwebs, ropes, strands, cords, filaments or the like can be configured towrap at least partially around the elongated light integrated handle171. In some cases, fasteners, such as hooks, can be secured to the endsof the straps for the securement. With this securement, the cover 140Cis less likely to flap in the wind as the apparatus 110 travels on aroadway or at speed.

The rear end 133RE can include a rear bumper 180 that forms the rearwardmost portion of the rear end. The bumper can be constructed from a solidand/or rigid material, such as stainless steel and/or aluminum. Thebumper also can include impact absorbers (not shown) therein. The rearlower bumper 180 is generally disposed adjacent a bottom most portion ofthe body 130B in the rear end 133RE, Adjacent and/or slightly above thebumper 180, a second platform 180P2 can be disposed. This platform 180P2can include gripping structures, and optionally can be in the form ofdiamond plate. The gripping structures can assist in obtaining a solidfoothold when standing on the platform 180P2. This platform can bereferred to as the lower platform. It can be disposed below the hose bed140, the hose bed flooring 140F, and further below the elongated lightintegrated handle 171 as described below. Depending on the application,the elongated light integrated handle 171 can be optionally 2 to 8 feetabove the platform, further optionally 3 to 6 feet above the platformand even further optionally 4 to 6 feet above the platform. The platformalso can be substantially horizontal and/or parallel to the othercomponents of the rear end of the truck, such as the floor 140F.Optionally, a storage bin 182 can be disposed immediately above theplatform. The storage bin can be used to store tools, equipment and thelike and can include a door that swings or folds open.

The rear end 133RE can include a first platform 180P1 that is disposedabove the second platform 180P2. This first platform can provide yetanother step up so that a user can easily access the hose bed 140. Thefirst platform can be approximately 1 foot to about 2 feet above thesecond platform or other distances depending on the particularapplication and structure of the rear end. Optionally, both platforms,the floor, the rear lower bumper and the light integrated handle can begenerally horizontal when the truck is parked on a horizontal surface.By being generally horizontal, it is meant that these elements do notdeviate from the horizontal plane by more than about 1° to about 5°.Further optionally, the platforms can be of different widths. Forexample, the second platform can be wider than the first platform orvice versa.

In some constructions, both platforms and additional steps 181S can belocated within a recess 180R that is formed in the rear end 133RE and inparticular the rear portion 133 of the truck 110. This recess can beoptionally 6 inches to 24 inches, further optionally 12 inches to 18inches, deep as indicated by the depth D5. Of course, other depths maybe selected depending on the application.

The recess 180R can be bounded by sidewalls 180SW as well as a rearexterior outer panel 185. This rear exterior outer panel 185 can bedisposed above the first and second platforms, as well as below thefloor 140F of the hose bed 140. The rear exterior outer panel 85 can besubstantially perpendicular to the floor 140F as well as the one or moreplatforms included with the rear end. As described further below, thispanel can be configured so that the light integrated handle can bejoined with it and/or to an underlying substructure or frame, which isalso considered to be part of that panel. The recess, and generally thepanel, can be about 72 inches wide. The panel can be wider or narrowerdepending on the particular application and the configuration of therear end 133RE. As will be appreciated with further discussion below,the light integrated handle 171 can be disposed substantially within therecess 180R, below the floor 140F of the hose bed 140.

As can be seen in FIG. 10, the rear end 133RE of the truck also includescolumns 183CL and 183CR. These columns are associated with therespective sidewalls 185W of the recess 180R and extend rearwardly,beyond the rear exterior outer panel 185. Generally, these columns canextend almost to the lower rear bumper 180, with only a small portion ofthe second platform being disposed between the lower rear bumper and thecolumns. The columns, or the rear end 133RE in general, can be outfittedwith multiple lights. For example, the right column 183CR can beoutfitted with a brake light 190B, a turn signal 192T and a generallight 190G. The brake light can be actuated by the controller 10C whenthe brakes are applied. The turn signal likely can be applied when theright hand or left hand turn signals are actuated by a driver. Thegeneral lights 190G can illuminate in any manner, for any purpose,depending on the particular application. Likewise, the left column 183CLcan include a brake light 191B, a turn signal light 191T and a generallight 191G. All of these lights on the left and right columns can behoused in separate housings and spatially distanced from the integratedhandle 171 as described further below. Generally however, these lightscan be operated via the controller 10C synchronously, with one anotherand/or with the light integrated handle. Optionally, both sets of lightson the left column in the right column can be disposed equal distancesfrom the body longitudinal axis BLA, on the respective left L and rightR sides of the body 130 and/or rear end 133RE.

As shown in FIGS. 8-10, the various lights 190B, 190T and 190G aredisposed farther from the longitudinal axis BLA on the right side Rthereof than the right end of the light integrated handle 171. Likewise,the various lights 191B, 191T 191G are disposed farther from thelongitudinal axis BLA on the left side L thereof than the left end ofthe light integrated handle 171 and its respective brackets as describedbelow.

As mentioned above, the light integrated handle 171 can be substantiallysimilar in structure and/or function and/or operation to the signal grabhandle 71 of the embodiment described immediately above. There can beseveral differences however. For example, the elongated light integratedhandle can span from a left side L of the body to the right side R ofthe body and rear end. Optionally, the light integrated handle 171 canbe disposed below the hose bed, and more particularly, below the floor140F of the hose bed. The light integrated handle 171 also can bedisposed above the rear bumper 180, as well as the first and secondplatforms and generally joined to the rearward outer exterior panel 185.The light integrated handle can be substantially parallel to variouscomponents of the rear end, for example, the lower rear bumper, thefloor, the first platform, the second platform, steps disposed in therear end, and/or other components of the rearward portion 133 of thetruck 110.

The elongated light integrated handle 171 can be mounted with one ormore brackets. As shown in FIG. 11, there can be first and second endbrackets 177LB and 177RB located on the respective left and right sidesof the body longitudinal axis BLA. These brackets can be substantiallysimilar to the brackets described above in connection with theembodiment above. For additional stability and strength, one or morecentral brackets 177CB can be added to the light integrated handle 171.While only one central bracket is shown, other brackets can be disposedbetween that bracket and the respective left end bracket. Again, thisbracket can be similar to the brackets described above in connectionwith the signal grab handle 71. Generally, these brackets can hold thegrab rail 171G, a distance away from the rear exterior outer panel 185,so that an opening 179O can be formed to enable the user's digits topass between the panel in the grab rail 171G.

The grab rail 171G can be an elongated structure with a gripping surfaceon the exterior thereof, similar to the embodiment of the central grabrail described above. The grab rail also can be constructed to includean elongated recess spanning between a first or left end 171L and thesecond or right and 171R. These ends can be disposed equidistant fromthe body longitudinal axis BLA on the respective left and right sidesthereof. The grab rail also can define an elongated recess 171CSconfigured to receive a portion of the light strip 190 and anyassociated housing 180H. The light strip, light elements and housing180H can be similar to the same components described in the currentembodiment above. For example, the light strip 190 can be at leastpartially disposed within the elongated recess 171CS, with a light stripdisposed outwardly relative to the rear exterior outer panel. The lightstrip 90 also can be joined via a wire 199 that extends through at leastone of the brackets and a corresponding hole 185H defined by the rearouter exterior panel 185, similar to the same components in the signalgrab handle described above. Again, due to the similarity, thesecomponents they will not be described again in detail here.

The elongated light integrated handle 171 can include a plurality ofindividual light sources thereon, and in particular, associated with thelight strip 190. These light sources can be LEDs, incandescent bulbs, orany other type of lighting element. These lights, and the lightintegrated handle can provide at least one of warning lights, which caninclude traffic advisor lights directing traffic in a particulardirection as well as general flashing lights that flash randomly to drawattention to the bank of lights, turn signal lights, which can indicateleft and/or right turn signals, and/or brake lights, which can indicatebraking of the vehicle. The lights and the light strip can be controlledby the controller 10C as with the embodiment described above. Forexample, the controller can control the light strip so that it operatesin an illumination mode in which one or more of the lights emitillumination in a predefined manner and/or a sleep mode in which theplurality of lights emit no illumination.

In some cases, the elongated light integrated handle 171 can includespecific banks or sets of lights, which can be selectively illuminateddepending on the particular instruction from the controller 10C oractions taken by a driver of the truck 110. For example, the elongatedlight integrated handle can include a left side 171L and a right side171R. A first bank of lights 191 can be disposed and/or adjacent theleft side 171L. A second bank of lights 192 can be disposed adjacent theright side 171R. The bank of lights 191, in particular the individuallight sources thereof, can be configured to synchronously illuminatewith the left turn signal 191T. This turn signal 191T can be locatedfarther from the longitudinal axis BLA than the bank of lights 191. Thisbank of lights also can be disposed at a different height or levelrelative to the bumper and/or platform when compared to the turn signal191T. Likewise, the bank of lights 192, and in particular, theindividual light sources thereof, can be configured to synchronouslyilluminate with the right turn signal 190T. This turn signal 190T can belocated farther from the longitudinal axis than the bank of lights 192.

Optionally, the controller 10C can be configured to control the turnsignals and respective outer banks of lights in the integrated lighthandle to illuminate them simultaneously to indicate a turningdirection. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the left turn signal 191Tcan be illuminated in intermittent manner, while the first bank oflights 191 is also illuminated. In this manner, a follower of the truck110 can be informed as to the direction of the truck and its signalingto turn left. Generally, the controller can be configured to selectivelyilluminate the left side or the right side signals and banks of lightsto indicate a turning direction. Again the illumination of these turnsignals and banks of lights in the handle can be staged to occur at thesame time and/or at a particular frequency.

The integrated handle light 171 also can be configured to include athird bank of lights 193. This bank of lights can generally be disposedadjacent the central bracket 177CB when included. The center bracket canbe outfitted with an opening 177O to enable the light bank 193 to beviewed adequately. This light bank 193 can be configured tosynchronously illuminate with the brake lights 190B of the truck 190when those brakes are actuated. For example, referring to FIG. 8, thebank of lights 193 of the elongated handle 171 are illuminated when theleft and right brake lights 190B and 191B are illuminated. Generally,the controller 10C can be configured to facilitate this illumination andactuation of the respective brake lights and associated bank of lightswithin the handle. This illumination can occur simultaneously or atintervals to indicate a braking activity of the truck 110.

The integrated handle light optionally can be configured to providewarning lights. As an example, all the banks of lights in the lightstrip can illuminate and/or flash in a preselected and/or random mannerto catch the attention of individuals near the truck. Optionally, thesewarning lights can include an illumination that acts as a trafficadvisor, directing traffic to the left or to the right of the truck 110.For example, as shown in FIG. 10 and with reference to FIG. 11, thebanks of lights 193, 194 and 191 can actuate in order, from center tothe left end 171L. In this manner, the lights appear to be “pointing” tothe left of the longitudinal axis BLA. Of course, the other lights onthe opposite side of the longitudinal axis BLA can also illuminate inorder in the opposite direction to the right to indicate a suggestedtraffic merge to the right. Further, all of the banks can be controlledby the controller 10C to illuminate in order from the right side to theleft side to indicate a left pointing traffic advisory, or from the leftside to the right side to indicate a right pointing traffic advisory. Aswill be appreciated, the lights can be controlled by the controller in avariety of manners to provide various warning lights, signal lights,and/or brake lights or other lighting scenarios, depending on theapplication.

Directional terms, such as “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” “bottom,”“upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “inwardly,” “outer” and “outwardly,” are usedto assist in describing the invention based on the orientation of theembodiments shown in the illustrations. The use of directional termsshould not be interpreted to limit the invention to any specificorientations.

The above description is that of current embodiments of the invention.Various alterations and changes can be made without departing from thespirit and broader aspects of the invention as defined in the appendedclaims, which are to be interpreted in accordance with the principles ofpatent law including the doctrine of equivalents. This disclosure ispresented for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted as anexhaustive description of all embodiments of the invention or to limitthe scope of the claims to the specific elements illustrated ordescribed in connection with these embodiments. For example, and withoutlimitation, any individual elements of the described invention may bereplaced by alternative elements that provide substantially similarfunctionality or otherwise provide adequate operation. This includes,for example, presently known alternative elements, such as those thatmight be currently known to one skilled in the art, and alternativeelements that may be developed in the future, such as those that oneskilled in the art might, upon development, recognize as an alternative.Further, the disclosed embodiments include a plurality of features thatare described in concert and that might cooperatively provide acollection of benefits. The present invention is not limited to onlythose embodiments that include all of these features or that provide allof the stated benefits, except to the extent otherwise expressly setforth in the issued claims. Any reference to claim elements in thesingular, for example, using the articles “a,” “an,” “the” or “said,” isnot to be construed as limiting the element to the singular. Anyreference to claim elements as “at least one of X, Y and Z” is meant toinclude any one of X, Y or Z individually, and any combination of X, Yand Z, for example, X, Y, Z; X, Y; X, Z; and Y, Z.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A firefighting apparatus, comprising: abody including a plurality of wheels configured to enable transportationof the apparatus to an emergency location, the body including a rear endhaving a rear lower bumper disposed adjacent a bottom of the body, and ahose bed including a floor, the floor being parallel to the rear lowerbumper and both being generally horizontal, the floor configured tosupport a hose stored in the hose bed; an elongated light integratedhandle mounted to the body at the rear end, below the floor and abovethe rear bumper, the light integrated handle spanning from a left sideof the rear end to a right side of the rear end, the elongated lightintegrated handle being substantially parallel to the bumper and to thefloor; wherein the elongated light integrated handle is operable in anillumination mode in which the light integrated handle emitsillumination, and a sleep mode in which the elongated light integratedhandle emits no illumination, whereby the elongated light integratedhandle provides at least one of warning lights, brake lights and signallights to observers of the firefighting apparatus when actuated.
 2. Thefirefighting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the rear end includes aplatform disposed above the lower rear bumper, wherein the rear endincludes a rear exterior outer panel, wherein the light integratedhandle is disposed at least three feet above the platform.
 3. Thefirefighting apparatus of claim 2, wherein the elongated lightintegrated handle is mounted rigidly and immovably with a first endbracket proximate a left side of the rear end, a second end bracketproximate a right side of the rear end, and a central bracket betweenthe first and second end brackets and disposed along a longitudinal axisof the body.
 4. The firefighting apparatus of claim 3, wherein theelongated light integrated handle includes a light strip including aplurality of lights, wherein the light strip is joined with a wire,wherein the wire extends through at least one of the first end bracket,the second end bracket and the central bracket, wherein the wire extendsthrough the rear exterior outer panel and is joined with a power source.5. A firefighting apparatus, comprising: a body including a plurality ofwheels, which are joined with a respective front axle and a rear axle,configured to enable transportation of the apparatus to an emergencylocation, the body including a forward portion having a cab and arearward portion located rearward of the cab, the body including a leftside and a right side opposite the left side, the body including a rearend associated with the rearward portion, the rear end having a rearlower bumper disposed adjacent a bottom of the body and a hose bedincluding a floor, the floor being parallel to the bumper, the floorconfigured to support a hose stored in the hose bed, the hose bedextending forward from the rear end toward the rear axle; and anelongated light integrated handle mounted to a cab exterior, wherein theelongated light integrated handle is mounted rearward of the floor to arear exterior outer panel that is substantially perpendicular to thefloor, wherein the elongated light integrated handle is orientedsubstantially horizontally and substantially parallel to the rear lowerbumper and to the floor, wherein the elongated light integrated handleincludes a grab rail configured to enable an occupant to wrap a handaround the grab rail, the grab rail joined with a first bracketproximate the left side of the rear end, a central bracket and a secondbracket proximate the right side of the rear end, wherein the first,central and second brackets rigidly and immovably join the grab railwith the cab so that there is an open space between the grab rail andthe outer panel, the open space sized to enable human digits to projectbetween the grab rail and the rear exterior outer panel while anoccupant grasps the grab rail with the hand, wherein the grab raildefines an elongated recess spanning between the first bracket and thesecond bracket, wherein a light strip, having a plurality of lights, ismounted at least partially within the elongated recess, the light stripoutwardly disposed relative to the rear exterior outer panel, whereinthe light strip is electrically coupled to a wire that extends away fromthe elongated recess, through at least a portion of at least one of thefirst, central and second brackets, and through at least one holedefined by the rear exterior outer panel, wherein the wire is inelectrical communication with a power source that provides power toilluminate the lights, whereby the elongated light integrated handleprovides at least one of warning lights, turn signal lights and brakelights to observers of the firefighting apparatus when the lights areactuated.
 6. The firefighting apparatus of claim 5, wherein the lightstrip includes a primary axis of illumination, wherein the primary axisof illumination points outward, away from the rear exterior outer panel.7. The firefighting apparatus of claim 6, wherein the primary axis ofillumination is disposed at an angle between 60 degrees and 120 degreesrelative to the rear exterior outer panel.
 8. The firefighting apparatusof claim 5, wherein the body defines a recess rearward of the hose bed,wherein the rear exterior outer panel forms a wall of the recess,wherein the recess is bounded by a first platform below the floor,wherein the lighting strip is substantially parallel to the firstplatform.
 9. The firefighting apparatus of claim 8, wherein the rear endincludes a second platform above the rear lower bumper and below thefirst platform, wherein the second platform is also disposed in therecess.
 10. The firefighting apparatus of claim 5 comprising: a housingwithin which the light strip is disposed, wherein the housing includesfirst and second flanges that are restrained by respective first andsecond shoulders of the grab rail, wherein the housing is at least oneof transparent and translucent.
 11. The firefighting apparatus of claim5 wherein the hose bed includes a cover, wherein the cover includes astrap, wherein the strap is configured to be wrapped around the grabrail to secure the cover.
 12. The firefighting apparatus of claim 5comprising: a first turn signal disposed on the left side, a second turnsignal disposed on the right side, wherein the elongated lightintegrated handle includes a left side end and an opposing right sideend, wherein the left side end includes a first bank of lightsconfigured to illuminate synchronously with the first signal, whereinthe right side end includes a second bank of lights configured toilluminate synchronously with the second signal.
 13. The firefightingapparatus of claim 12, wherein the first turn signal is farther from alongitudinal axis of the body than the first bank of lights on the leftside, wherein the second turn signal is farther from a longitudinal axisof the body than the second bank of lights on the right side.
 14. Thefirefighting apparatus of claim 13 comprising a controller operablycoupled to the light strip, the controller configured to illuminate theplurality of lights in a plurality of traffic advisor patterns, wherebytraffic indications are provided to observers of the firefightingapparatus.
 15. A firefighting apparatus comprising: a body including aplurality of wheels configured to enable transportation of the apparatusto an emergency location, the body including a body longitudinal axis,the body including a rear end having lower rear bumper and a platformdisposed above the lower rear bumper, and a rear exterior outer panelextending generally perpendicular to the platform; and an elongatedlight integrated handle mounted to the rear exterior outer panel,wherein the elongated light integrated handle includes a grab railconfigured to enable an occupant to wrap a hand around the grab rail,the grab rail including a left end and an opposing right end, whereinthe elongated light integrated handle includes a handle longitudinalaxis extending from the left end to the opposing right end, the handlelongitudinal axis being oriented horizontally, parallel to the platformand the lower rear bumper, wherein the elongated light integrated handleis rigidly and immovably joined with the cab via at least one bracket,with an open space between the grab rail and the rear exterior outerpanel, the open space sized to enable human digits to project betweenthe grab rail and the rear exterior outer panel while an occupant graspsthe grab rail with the hand, wherein the central grab rail isconstructed from metal and defines an elongated recess spanning betweenthe left end and the right end of the grab rail, wherein an light strip,having a plurality of lights, is mounted at least partially within theelongated recess, the light strip outwardly disposed relative to therear exterior outer panel so as to project light outward and away fromthe rear exterior outer panel when the light strip is actuated, whereinthe light strip is operable in an illumination mode in which theplurality of lights emit illumination in a predefined manner, and asleep mode in which the plurality of lights emit no illumination;wherein the light strip is joined with a wire that extends away from thelight strip, through the at least one bracket, and through a holedefined by the rear exterior outer panel, wherein the wire is inelectrical communication with a controller that operates the light stripin the illumination mode to illuminate the plurality of lights in thepredefined manner, whereby the elongated light integrated handleprovides at least one of warning lights, brake lights, and signal lightsto observers of the firefighting apparatus when actuated.
 16. Thefirefighting apparatus of claim 15, wherein the rear end includes a hosebed including a rearward opening covered with a tarp, wherein the tarpis strapped to the elongated light integrated handle with a strap. 17.The firefighting apparatus of claim 16, comprising: a turn signalmounted outward from the body longitudinal axis farther than the lightintegrated handle, wherein the body longitudinal axis and the handlelongitudinal axis are perpendicular to one another.
 18. The firefightingapparatus of claim 15, wherein the plurality of lights of the lightintegrated handle adjacent the left end are configured to synchronouslyilluminate with a left signal located on the rear end of the body. 19.The firefighting apparatus of claim 16, wherein the at least one bracketof the elongated light integrated handle includes a pillar extendingtoward the rear exterior outer panel, the pillar joined with a bracketbase; wherein the bracket base defines a first fastener hole and asecond fastener hole; wherein the bracket base is joined with the rearexterior outer panel via a first fastener extending through the firstfastener hole and the outer panel, and a second fastener extendingthrough the second fastener hole and the rear exterior outer panel. 20.The firefighting apparatus of claim 19, wherein the pillar defines aconnector bore, wherein the rear exterior outer panel defines aconnector hole aligned with the connector bore; wherein the light stripis joined with a wire that extends through the connector bore, throughthe connector hole and behind the rear outer exterior panel.